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I set up a direct debit to donate to Kingston University's Hardship Fund, the same fund that twice saved my dream, saved my future and changed my life!

I was close to being expelled and deported to my home country when the currency rapidly and unexpectedly changed, as a result of sanctions. Because of the new exchange rate, my family was unable to pay my tuition fees.

With the support from the Hardship Fund, I was able to continue my studies and finish my degree with distinction. I'm now a proud Mechanical Design Engineer.

Today, I am extremely happy to return the support given which saved my future, knowing it will save others.

I am immensely fond of the University and all that it gave me.

A member of the Kingston alumni team visited me and we talked about various ways in which I could help current students – mentoring, guest speaking, judging competitions and also by supporting scholarships and bursaries.

I wouldn't have realised my full potential without the bursary I received, so the offer to help others in the same way I was helped was truly compelling.

The work Kingston University does to support talented students and help them realise their potential is tangible and transformational and I am very proud to be a part of this.

I'm giving back because Kingston gave so much to me personally, including for my confidence and self-development. The course was an excellent blend of theory and practice, particularly in my placement year, alongside a strong sports and social life.

Helping others to have easier access to education, build sound careers and make a positive impact on society is why I feel particularly passionate about supporting young people.

The environment for students today is much more challenging in terms of access and financial support. Access to employment for those from non-traditional university backgrounds is so important, as is supporting positive outcomes for graduates in times of uncertainly.

When I first started to give to support students at Kingston, I did so because I had a wonderful time here and wanted to ensure that others could thrive in an environment that suited me so well.

Over the years I can see the difference that my support is having on students at Kingston from all backgrounds – enabling them to get the education they deserve.

I also love sharing my experience and giving back in other ways as well.

It's been amazing using some of my business skills I obtained through Kingston and subsequent career to get involved in initiatives such as Bright Ideas.

I strongly believe that entrepreneurship is not only a crucial factor in driving economic growth and innovation, but it also enables individuals to turn their dreams into reality, make a meaningful impact, and derive great pleasure from the challenges and opportunities that arise.

Entrepreneurs are a unique group of individuals who possess creativity, risk-taking abilities, and a strong sense of perseverance.

Additionally, entrepreneurship has the potential to address some of the world's most pressing economical, social and environmental issues. I am always in awe of the next generation of thinkers and doers as they realise their potential and achieve remarkable feats.

I have great memories from my time as an architecture student at Knights Park and am very proud to have been a student there.

Everything I've seen happening today at Kingston University shows that they really look after their students and have a strong commitment to helping people from disadvantaged backgrounds. It is definitely something that we as a society should be doing.

I know from my 50 years of business experience that not all talents are shown immediately. There are some very bright people, if they only had their chance at the same education, could realise their true potential too.

Graduates should be aware of their social responsibility. If you also had a wonderful experience at Kingston, give back to future generations by opening those doors to them as they were opened for you.